Nip It in the Bud : Preventing Post- Partum Depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common issue that affects around 10 to 15 % of women after delivery. A severe form of clinical depression, it is related to pregnancy and childbirth. This is especially common amongst women who have any history of major depression. Therefore, while checking pregnancy test kit price when hoping to conceive, also research about post-partum conditions. Along with identifying the groups of women more susceptible to postpartum depression, it is important to discuss the ways in which it can be reduced or prevented altogether.

B-Complex Vitamins

Nutrients like Vitamins B6 and folic acid help in metabolizing the body’s homocysteine by reducing its level in the blood. Food items that are rich in Vitamin B6 are whole grains, eggs, fruits, veggies, meats, legumes, and dairy products. However, Vitamin B12 can be found in abundance in animal products, so vegetarians may rely on supplements as well. Folic acid, on the other hand, can be found in green leafy veggies. Just like you can find a stethoscope onlineas well as at a store, you can also find all these supplements online. However, be sure to consult your doctor before.

Balanced Diet

The importance of a balanced diet cannot be stressed enough. Not just vitamins, the body requires other nutrients in good measures. Hence, it is important to ensure a diet rich in all or most nutrients.

Rest and Sleep

Even though this is a difficult task with a newborn in the house, but adequate and good sleep can make a huge difference when it comes to PPD. Take help from your family members and avoid getting overstressed and exhausted.

Hydrate

Water can solve more than half of our problems. There is a direct connection between dehydration and lack of energy and anxiety. Since new mothers also breastfeed, the risk of dehydration increases. It is advisable, hence, to keep a track of the amount of water you are drinking.

Stress Management

Stress can lead to a lack of sleep and feeling low and confused. Include more stress-reducing practices in your daily routine to avoid or manage stress. For example, meditation and breathing exercises work very well for new mothers in managing hectic routines easily. Do not be afraid to speak up when you feel you need help. If you feel sad or low, be sure to share this with a therapist or people you trust. You might feel guilty but know that it is not your fault and can be managed with some help.

Kunal has over 3 years working in the Real Estate Finance and Development industry in UK and India. He started his career as an acquisitions consultant analysing and structuring real estate investments in London and other parts of UK for a sovereign wealth fund.